Pisgah National Forest:

North of Marion, North Carolina, Linville Gorge was first designated a wild area in 1951 by the Chief of the Forest Service. With the signing of the Wilderness Act of 1964, the area became one of the original components of the National Wilderness System. The original 7,575 acres was increased to the present 12,002 acres by the 1984 North Carolina Wilderness Act.http://ncnatural.com/Resources/Adventure/Gorge/Linville-Gorge.html

Blue Ridge Parkway:

On September 11, 1935 construction began on what was the country's first and ultimately longest rural scenic parkway. Fifty two years later, the 469-mile route was completed with the dedication of the Linn Cove Viaduct on Grandfather Mountain.http://www.blueridgeparkway.org/

Mount Mitchell State Park:

Lake James State Park:

One of North Carolina's newest state parks, Lake James offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors. Bring family and friends for swimming and sunbathing or enjoy a picnic along the lake shore. Boat, water ski, or fish in cool mountain waters, or take a walk and enjoy an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife along park trails. http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/laja/main.php

Grandfather Mountain:

The highest peak in Blue Ridge features endless vistas, a mile-high swinging bridge, wildlife habitats, picnicking, and hiking. Located one mile from the Blue Ridge Parkway.http://www.grandfather.com